There is an ongoing debate as to the severity of the decline in the modern attention span. However, in a world pervaded by 140 character messages and trivial clickbait articles, few would argue that many are now consuming information more rapidly and in smaller pieces. In this environment, an article’s headline has become increasingly important, taking an outsized role in conveying the information within.

Therefore, when a headline contains misleading information, whether due to political motivation or simple inaccuracy, it is not without consequence.

Take the following:

“The NRA is pushing to eliminate concealed carry permits in NC and across the country” – The News & Observer (Raleigh, N.C.), June 20, 2017.